2009 Christmas Appeal: Single dad cares for 4, including twins

CORPUS CHRISTI - Twins Gage and Lupe, 8, don't have many constants in their lives. The boys have each other, their sisters and their dad.

Their mom has come in and out of their lives several times this year, most recently leaving before Thanksgiving.

They boys have moved from place to place, the last time from a shelter to a motel room. Their dad had hoped to rent a house but now plans to move the family again as soon as he has the money so they can be closer to his family and he can get help with day care.

While still at the shelter, the boys engaged in a bit of horseplay as their younger sister, Maggie, 5, danced around waving a blue Matchbox car in her hand.

"Blue's my favorite color," she said.

Despite the activity, the youngest, 7-month-old Nichole, slept peacefully.

Their dad, Alex, makes about $300 a week. The family also receives food stamps.

This Thanksgiving, the children went to stay with their dad's sister so he could work extra hours to help provide.

With rent, utilities and the family's essential needs, the bills amount to $800 a month.

The family does not own a vehicle and relies on friends and public transportation.

Alex doesn't know how he'll meet his children's Christmas wishes.

Gage and Lupe dream of Pocket Rocket mini bikes for Christmas.

"I saw it on TV," Gage said, "The kids were riding it, and it looked really awesome."

But the twins also would like fishing poles so their dad can take them fishing.

"They have been asking me to take them fishing for years," Alex said.

Maggie jumped for joy as she answered, "I want a Barbie." She also loves anything pink.

For Nichole, a baby walker would be a perfect gift and a definite need.

"She can already stand against furniture and crawl," Alex said.

But what the children need most for Christmas are winter clothes. The clothes they have now are either too large or are more suited for summer.

(Edit:Ruby)